Mr Lee again: "The commonwealth is hanging around like a cranky uncle."

Mr Lee on how the settlement has changed since it was initially agreed to by Mr Ashby and the commonwealth: "This is descending down the rabbit hole."

Commonwealth lawyer Julian Burnside QC on why he should stay in court and assist Mr Slipper: "In the circumstances we know more about the case than some counsel who wandered past the court this morning."

Mr Slipper, after suggesting the case against him should be thrown out: "I apologise for my inelegant and inexperienced expression, your honour."